Farmers' perceptions of climate change in the island of Gozo

Abstract

Agriculture is an important sector as it generates economic growth as well as food production. As Maltese agriculture is highly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change the adverse effects on crop yields and livestock will be highly evident. Adaptation is a key component to identify the different perceptions and attitudes towards agriculture to mitigate the risks brought about by climate change. Moreover, adaptation needs to be provided adequately and efficiently to enhance the adaptive capacity of farmers. The aim of this dissertation is to investigate Gozitan farmers' perceptions and attitudes towards climate change and its effect on agriculture. Moreover this dissertation will investigate if farmers are willing to adapt to measures. The hypothesis states that climate change is affecttng agriculture and farmers are willing to adapt. Methodology was based upon interviews with Gozitan cultivating and livestock farmers, statistical techniques utilising the software Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) and field observations. The findings illustrate that local farmers currently are perceiving climate change and mostly have an active approach. Moreover livestock farmers are more willing to adapt to climate change.